Lathyrus tuberosus, also known as the Tuberous Pea, Earthnut Pea, or Aardaker, is a small, climbing perennial plant, native in moist temperate parts of Europe and western Asia.

The plant is a trailer or weak climber, supported by tendrils, growing to 1.2 m tall. The leaves are pinnate, with two leaflets and a branched twining tendril at the apex of the petiole. Its flowers are hermaphroditic, pollinated by bees. The plants can also spread vegetatively from the root system.

Cultivation and uses

It is occasionally grown as a root vegetable for its edible tuber. The sweet, starchy tubers are edible cooked or raw. Although palatable and nutritious, the crop is hampered by low productivity.

The plant is attractive and susceptible to slugs.

External links

• Plants for a Future database